The annual ADK Restaurant Week is kicking off this weekend at fine dining establishments offering prix-fixe menu with prices of $15, $20, and $30. The special 8-day event continues through May 9 with wonderful menu options to explore. I like the ease of ordering a three-course meal at a fixed price. It gives chefs room for creativity at an affordable price-point for the customers.

Organized in 2015 by Paul Smith College students under the tutelage of Professor Joe Conto, EAT ADK was purposefully designed to continue to grow and expand beyond its original community. The event name itself welcomes all restaurants within the Blue Line.  The ease of a set menu allows each place to specialize within a budget. Another nice opportunity isn’t just the option to try some wonderful local food, but explore signature cocktails and beer pairings.

Some of my favorite Lake Placid restaurants are on the list, but I’m looking forward to expanding my palate to include restaurants in Long Lake, Tupper Lake and Saranac Lake. For menu options and special selections check out EATADK.org.

In addition to expanding beyond Lake Placid, EAT ADK is bringing awareness to childhood food insecurity through the Backpack Program Food Drive. This national program provides children with food for weekends and through school holidays. By providing a backpack full of food, each child is given a discreet option to have basic needs met without making their situation public. Currently there are over 11 locations through Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and Tupper Lake set up to take any non-perishable snacks, shelf-stable milk and juice, as well as easily prepared meals.

For my family, it’s allowed us to be more flexible while eating out. We always joke that we support most of the local economy during tennis season because we are rarely home to prepare a meal. Being part of a spring sport usually means a grab-and-go from the market or sandwich from a deli. Being part of EAT ADK means we still eat locally, but our budget dollars go a bit further with the added bonus of sitting at a table and eating with utensils.

The concept of EAT ADK makes local food affordable while enabling residents and visitors alike the ability to explore new and potentially favorite local cuisine.